Millions of people visit Florida eveyr year to go to Disney World, but there is so much more to this state and lots of hiddem gems to explore.
Now, while Florida is a huge state consisting of two major regions (the further north you go, the deeper south you get), the truth is that it’s really hard to see all that Florida has to offer in a single trip.
Fortunately, there’s a place that encapsulates most of all the best things that make up Florida (and earn it its reputation).
We’re talking, of course, about Treasure Island.
Why Visit Treasure Island
Is Treasure Island worth visiting? Yes! This is a destination that has amazing beaches, water sports, leisure, shopping, outdoor activities, tasty food and a rich history waiting to be discovered.
If you are looking for a summer vacation destination Treasure Island is perfect. It isn't overcrowded and doesn't have that generic tourist vibe. Treasure Island is also only 3 miles long so it is easy to get around on foot or bike.
Where to Stay
Finding accommodation in Treasure Island is pretty easy, and you can find anything from high-end resorts to cheap motels. Accommodation is very affordable compared to other hotspots in Florida.
How to Get Here
Treasure Island is located just north of St. Pete Beach on Florida's Gulf Coast. The nearest airport to Treasure Island is St. Petersburg (PIE). From here the easiest way to get to Treasure Island and around is by renting a car. If you don't drive other options include taking a bus from Tampa to Treasure Island which takes around 3 hours and is very affordable.
Top Things to Do in Treasure Island
Here’s what makes this place a paradise for adventure seekers and a must visit location on any Florida itinerary.
1. Treasure Island Beach
The Treasure Island beach has an average of 345 days of sunshine, which is all you really have to know about it. The average air temperature is 82 degrees, while the average water temperature is 80 degrees, which creates seamless transitions and makes it a perfect place for anyone who plans to swim, surf or dive.
The beach is 85 miles long, which means that there’s always space, even during the busiest season. At the same time, if you plan to go to areas like John’s Pass or Blind Pass, you’ll see that the beaches are a bit narrower than what you’re used to.
You can park nearby and prices are not too high. You’ll pay $3 per hour on weekdays and $3.25 on weekends. That is, provided that you’ve traveled here by car.
2. Boat Trips
There are lots of sightseeing tours and activities available to book all year round. You can book boat excursions or fishing trips throughout the year. Another popular option is boat rentals in Treasure Island, FL, which is a great way to see the coast and relax at your own pace.
3. John’s Pass Village and Boardwalk
If you’re looking for a seaside tourist resort on Treasure Island, John’s Pass Village and Boardwalk are what you’re looking for. This is an area with one of the most iconic sights, more than a hundred shops, restaurants, and businesses providing equipment for water sports and water-related activities.
This last part is especially convenient because this is one of the best places for you to try your hand at fishing and watersports. There are so many companies specializing in phishing boat rentals, deep-sea fishing charters, and even parasailing excursions. This means that you’ll have the opportunity to try anything you plan to try.
Shopping and dining at John’s Pass Village are quite rewarding, as well. You have more than 20 different specialty shops. That means that you should be able to find any kind of souvenir you’re looking for.
The next thing you need to take into consideration the various family activities that are available here. Pirate cruises are amazing. They’re more than just learning about pirates. It’s a two-hour cruise filled with everything from water gun battles and treasure hunts, all the way to face-painting and pirate stories.
4. Nature, Parks and Trails
Most people associate Treasure Island with water sports and water-based activities and for a good reason. Even in other great tourist destinations in Florida, you’re unlikely to find a place that matches its vibe.
The largest park on Treasure Island is the Community Center Park. This place is a great spot, hosting many outdoor events like markets and music festivals, and it has a massive open green space where you can engage in all sorts of picnics.
If you’re interested in hiking, there are so many amazing trails, ranging from Walshingham Park Trail and Sawgrass Lake Park Trail all the way to Boca Ciega Boardwalk. Keep in mind that Treasure Island isn’t riddled with mountainous terrain, which is why all of these trails are relatively easy and beginner-friendly.
Sure, they might not be the first place you would visit if the priority of the trip is hiking; however, if you plan to squeeze a hike or two into a trip, you have many options worth exploring.
If, on the other hand, you’re interested in exploring the wildlife on Treasure Island, there are so many lizard species, raccoons, and even dolphins that you will be able to observe. If you’re really lucky, you might even spot a manatee. Bird-watching on an island is also nothing to look down on.
5. Sports
The island also has a lot to offer in terms of leisure. It’s a place filled with spas and recreation golf courses. So, if you want to go and practice your swing (in golf or tennis), finding the right recreation center is relatively easy. The island has a pretty decent 9-hole golf course where you can practice your short game.
6. Spas and Relaxation
A paradise spa is a full-spectrum luxury day spa. Here, you have a clean, quiet, and professional atmosphere to help you relax. You see, the main reason why a lot of people go on a vacation is to unwind. While going on an adventure is always a good idea, from time to time, you need a place that’s fully dedicated to comfort and pleasure.
Since it’s a full tourist center, there are also quite a few places where you can get a massage, do your nails, get adequate skincare, and more. This will help you get your necessary dosage of self-care and be ready to rejoin civilization.
Plan a Trip to Treasure Island
If you’re planning to go on a vacation and intend to engage in water sports or spend most of the time on the beach, you can’t go wrong with Treasure Island.
This is easily one of the best places to visit in Florida during summer where you can choose between both adventure and leisure. First of all, it’s an ideal spot for hiking, nature, fishing, and all sorts of water-based activities.
If you want to spend time at the beach, the difference between the temperature of air and water (annual average) is roughly two degrees. On top of that, you only have about 20 days (not even that many every year) that are not sunny.
Go visit Treasure Island for yourself and let us know how you get on. Or if you have any advice to share leave your comments below.
